Results of Russe's Method in the Treatment of Old Scaphoid Fractures

There have been many reports that favorable bone union is achieved by using Russe's method in the treatment of old scaphoid fractures. In 1981, Kojima reported favorable results using Russe's method. In this study, the relationship between clinical results using Russe's method for treating unstable scaphoid fractures and the onset of carpal instability was examined.Subjects were 17 patients (17 hands) with old scaphoid fractures who were treated according to Russe's method and were followed-up from 1977 to 1991. The periods from time of injury to surgery varied from 3 months to 17 years. At the time of operation, patients ranged in age from 15 to 54 years.Results were evaluated using Cooney's clinical scoring chart. Bone union was achieved in 16 cases. The results were favorable from the clinical viewpoint. In rating the findings radiographically, the radiolunate angle, scapho-lunate angle, and scaphoid length were used. In 9 cases, DISI deformation existed preoperatively. Postoperatively, progress in the deformation was noted in 6 cases.